9. Poem: Free: How does the speaker's tone contribute to the overall meaning of the poem?

Question

a) The confident tone reinforces the theme of self-acceptance and independence.
a) The confident tone reinforces the theme of self-acceptance and independence.

b) The sorrowful and regretful tone emphasizes the speaker's desire to change their situation.
b) The sorrowful and regretful tone emphasizes the speaker's desire to change their situation.

c) The confused and uncertain tone shows the speaker is unsure about their choices.
c) The confused and uncertain tone shows the speaker is unsure about their choices.

d) The aggressive and confrontational tone suggests resentment toward society.

“Just look at him!” Victor let out a whistle. Randall didn’t need to look. He knew exactly
who Victor was talking about. Starks James was the most popular kid in school and for good
reason. His father was none other than Conner James--the best player for the Houston Texans.
Not only did he have a celebrity father, but that also meant that he was very wealthy. Starks
always had the nicest clothes, shoes and technology. This also meant that Starks had all of the
girls falling at his feet. Yes, Randall was green with envy. He was not a fan of Starks. The boys
watched as Starks approached them with a confident smile.
“Hey guys, my birthday is this weekend. Would you want to come over on Friday?”
Starks looked hopeful. “We actually have other--” Randall was interrupted by Victor. “We will be
there. It sounds cool, man.” Victor had no shame. “Great. Write down your addresses and my
driver will pick you up at six o’clock.” Starks took their numbers and walked away. “Victor, are
you crazy? We hate that kid.” “Yeah, but I don’t hate his house. I’ve heard he has a movie
theatre, an indoor swimming pool and a skate park all inside of his house. We are so going!”
Victor slapped Randall on the back and left him to his thoughts.
Friday arrived and the boys were soon in Starks’ limousine. Randall wondered how
much having your own private driver would cost. His family would never be able to afford such
luxury. He couldn’t believe he was actually going. This was going to be a huge mistake. His
thoughts were interrupted when they arrived at Starks’ house. House isn’t the right word,
thought Randall. This is a mansion. Starks met the boys outside and invited them in. He gave
them a tour of his home and Randall became even angrier. Why does Starks deserve to have
everything when I have nothing? He’s so lucky. “All right guys, what do you want to do first?”
Starks rubbed his hands together, visibly excited. Despite Starks’ kindness, Randall felt nothing
but irritated. “Let’s meet your dad.” Starks face became red. “He’s actually out of town. I haven’t

seen him in a few months, but we can play football if you’d like.” “Actually, I’m feeling a bit
hungry. Can your mom cook us something?”
Randall could only imagine what rich people food tasted like. “I’m sorry, but we have to
order pizza. My mom isn’t around. She left my dad a while back.” Starks shuffled his feet and
avoided looking at Randall. “I pretty much take care of myself. It gets to be pretty lonely around
here, so I’m excited that you guys decided to come over.” At first, Randall had another smart
comment ready, but then he stopped. He hated Starks so badly because he thought that Starks
had everything he wanted. It was beginning to seem that he was wrong. “Do you want to maybe
play video games?” Starks was clearly hoping to change the subject. “Yes, where’s your
restroom? I’ll meet you in your room.” Starks looked relieved and pointed to a door down the
hall. Randall had an idea. He made a quick call when he shut the restroom door. Randall
returned and shortly after the boys began their game, the doorbell rang. Starks excused himself
to answer the door. “Victor,” Randall began to hurriedly whisper.
“I have a plan. My mom is outside right now. We’re going to have a party for Starks.” “I
thought you hated him!” “I thought I did too. Let’s go.” Just as the boys were heading toward the
door, Starks ran into them. “Hey, your mom is outside, and she wants us to come to your house.
Are we in trouble?” “I don’t know man, but we’d better listen.” Starks paled and nodded. The
boys got into the car and drove to Randall’s house. When they arrived, a cake was waiting for
Starks. “Blow out the candles! A nice guy like you deserves a proper birthday party!” Randall
smiled and patted his new friend on the back. “Thanks! I’ve never had a birthday party before.
I’ve never really had friends either.” The boys played all night long. Although Randall’s house
wasn’t nearly as nice or as fancy as Starks, Randall wasn’t too surprised when Starks said:
“Can I come over again next week? This is the best house ever.” Starks is right, Randall
thought. At last, Randall felt like the lucky one.

Answer 1

The poem titled "Free" develops a significant exploration of self-identity, social dynamics, and the perceptions of wealth and happiness. The speaker's tone plays a crucial role in conveying the overall meaning of the poem. Of the options provided, the best choice that aligns with the text is:

a) The confident tone reinforces the theme of self-acceptance and independence.

In the narrative involving Randall and Starks, we see a juxtaposition between perceived wealth and true companionship. Initially, Randall is envious and frustrated by Starks' material possessions and popularity. However, as they interact, Randall's tone shifts from resentment to acceptance and understanding. By the end of the story, he realizes that having a true friend (Starks) is more valuable than material possessions. This shift reflects a growing confidence within Randall as he learns to appreciate his own worth and the importance of friendship over social status.

Therefore, the confident tone that emerges as Randall embraces his new friendship highlights an evolving theme of self-acceptance and independence from societal pressures and comparisons. The entire narrative suggests that emotional connections can surpass material wealth, leading to a more profound sense of freedom and fulfillment.